Initially facing challenges in understanding her rights and dealing with issues like domestic violence, electronic blackmail, and other social challenges affecting young women, Hala’s participation in the World YWCA RiseUp! Transformative Leadership Methodology for young women’s transformative leadership training marked a turning point in her life.
Hala explains,
“Through the training, I gained the tools and skills necessary to confront the challenges I face, which greatly boosted my self-confidence.”
Empowered by the knowledge and skills she acquired, Hala decided to use her newfound abilities to support young women in her community. The YW4A leadership training programme focused on building transformative leadership skills and helping young women take control of their rights and future. Hala took this mission to heart, training young women at various institutions in Jerusalem, including the Yabous Cultural Center, Anata’s Young Women Center, and the YWCA Jerusalem Vocational Training Center.
She educated young women on crucial topics such as domestic violence, electronic blackmail, and political participation, creating spaces for them to share success stories and inspire one another. Through her use of social media platforms, Hala expanded her influence, bringing attention to the issues young women face in her community.
One of Hala’s most impactful achievements was creating a support group for young women from Anata refugee camp. This group serves as a safe space for exchanging information, offering support, and raising awareness about the importance of women’s participation in decision-making processes. Her work has made her a symbol of strength and positive change, inspiring many young women in her community to pursue their dreams and confront challenges head-on.
In July 2024, Hala participated in a legal and media advocacy training in Turkey, organised by Equality Now, further expanding her knowledge and network. She is now a key member of the YW4A programme’s reference group, continuing to advocate for the rights and empowerment of young women in Palestine.
Hala’s journey embodies the core mission of the YW4A programme: to amplify the voices and participation of young women, helping them achieve dignity, safety, and effective involvement in society. Her story is a testament to the power of education, awareness, and leadership training in creating lasting change and empowering young women to impact their communities significantly.
